Catharanthus roseus

Pink Periwinkle, Madagascar periwinkle, Madagascar rosy periwinkle, Cayenne jasmine, Rosy Periwinkle, Tonga, Cape periwinkle, Churchyard Blossom, Madalena Blanco, Old Church Blossom, Old Maids Olleander, Periwinkle, Bright-eyes, Graveyardplant, Old-maid, Old-maid-flower, Rose Periwinkle, Old Maid, Red Periwinkle, Vinca, Billygoat Weed, Oldmaid, Tropical Periwinkle, White Vinca Flower, Catharanthus roseus, Vinca rosea

Description

An ornamental herbaceous plant with an upright or trailing habit depending on the variety, vigorous growth and abundant branching. It quickly forms dense canopies of foliage from which elegant flowers emerge in a wide range of colours, often with a centre of a different colour or shade, blooming profusely and continuously from late spring to early autumn, adding a vivid and striking touch to gardens, in flowerbeds or borders, and on terraces or balconies in planters, pots and troughs. Moderately hardy, it adapts well to high summer temperatures and moderate drought, preferring well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade; it is also easy to care for and maintain.